Microfinance has long been recognizedas having significant potential to create jobs and reduce poverty. But to meet the twinchallenges of growth and sustainability, managers of microfinance institutions (MFIs) mustnot only understand essential management they must also be armed with innovativeideas and strategies to succeed in today's increasingly competitive environment. This bookprovides a valuable overview of the key management principles necessary to optimize theservices of MFIs. The book examines the markets and marketing of MFIs and captures thedifferent ways that managers can communicate the value of their products and services. Itoffers strategies to prevent risk from occurring and, if it does occur, explains how torectify the situation. Practical techniques for allocating costs and determining prices arealso highlighted, as well as the importance of plans, budgets and reports. In a clear, easyto follow presentation, the book includes illustrations and case studies to assist managersin applying the concepts outlined in the text.
Craig Churchill is a senior technical officer in the ILO's Social Finance Program. Cheryl Frankiewicz is a master trainer for the International Training Centre of the International Labor Office.